How to Send a Wire Transfer

A wire transfer moves money directly from your bank to another bank, usually the same business day. It's the standard way to pay for a house closing or any large payment where the other side needs guaranteed funds. At big banks, a domestic wire usually costs $25–$35 to send, and it's cheaper online than in a branch. For how wires compare with other ways to send money, see ACH vs wire vs Zelle.

Checked September 23, 2026.

What you need from the recipient

Many banks use a different routing number for wires than the one printed on checks. Ask for the wire routing number.

Step by step

1. Confirm the details by phone using a number you looked up yourself. See the fraud warning below.
2. Log in to online banking or go to a branch. Online is usually $10 cheaper.
3. Add the recipient and enter their details.
4. Enter the amount and confirm. For a large or first-time wire, your bank may call you to verify before sending.
5. Save the confirmation. It has a reference number the recipient's bank can use to trace the payment.

Fees at major banks (domestic, outgoing)

Some premium accounts, such as Chase Private Client, waive wire fees. Some online brokerages charge less, and a few charge nothing.

Timing and cutoffs

Wires go out on business days only. Most banks have a cutoff in the early-to-mid afternoon, and a wire sent after it goes the next business day. Wires don't go out on weekends or federal bank holidays. International wires can take 1–5 business days.

Wire fraud: the main risk

A wire can't be reversed. Once the money arrives, getting it back depends on the receiving bank freezing the account before the money is withdrawn, and that rarely happens in time.

The most common scam targets house buyers. A fake email that seems to come from your title company or agent says the wiring instructions have changed. Always phone to confirm wiring instructions using a number from your contract or the company's website, never one from the email.

International wires

A bank's international fee (often $40–$50) is only part of the cost. Banks also add a markup to the exchange rate, and banks the money passes through along the way can take their own fees. For sending money abroad, a specialist transfer service usually costs less. See how to send money internationally.

FAQ

Can I cancel a wire? Only before it's processed, and usually only within minutes. Call your bank immediately.

Is there a limit? Many personal accounts have no fixed limit. Online wires often have a daily limit, and a branch can send larger amounts.

Wire or cashier's check? Use a wire for closings and large payments made remotely. A cashier's check suits a payment you hand over in person.